In a report from NewsChannel 5 in Nashville, a group of 13 Tennessee foster children, representing over 9,000 in the state’s foster care system, has filed a class action lawsuit against the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services (DCS).

The lawsuit, supported by A Better Childhood and Bass, Berry, and Sims, alleges that DCS fails to protect foster children by placing them in unsafe transitional homes, leaving them in temporary placements for extended periods, and providing inadequate care from overworked and undertrained caseworkers. Specific cases, like Dewayne W. and Jasmine G., highlight claims of unsafe living conditions, inappropriate placements, and neglect of educational and therapeutic needs.

The lawsuit follows a prior 2000 lawsuit that led to federal oversight until 2017, after which conditions reportedly deteriorated. The plaintiffs seek remedies including lower caseworker caseloads, better-vetted foster homes, and efforts to secure permanent placements.

The case is filed in U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee.